Ask a Vet Archive

When it comes to your pet's health, there's no such thing as a dumb question. Search questions real clients have submitted to our popular Ask a Vet Q&A series, and then submit a question of your own.

  • What are the benefits of spaying or neutering my pet?

    In general, veterinarians recommend spaying and neutering any pets that are not specifically designated for breeding. Those who are planning to breed their pets should have those pets deemed healthy and acceptable for breeding by a veterinarian. The overarching purpose of responsible breeding is improvement of the breed.

    Benefits of spaying a female pet include:

    1. Not having to deal with a pet in heat
    2. No risk of unwanted or accidental pregnancy and fewer puppies/kittens abandoned or surrendered to face uncertain futures
    3. No risk of pyometra (uterine infection), which can be life-threatening and requires an emergency (and usually expensive spay)
    4. Protective against mammary (breast) cancer if done prior to 2 years of age (dogs)
    5. Decreased exposure to feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus (FeLV and FIV) (cats)

    Benefits of neutering a male dog:

    1. Less aggressive with other dogs, especially other unneutered dogs
    2. Less roaming behavior and chance of being hit by a car, injured by another dog or getting lost
    3. Removes the risk of testicular cancer

Need more information or advice?

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